Small Dog Attacked on Thames Street: Vet Says Animal Will Recover

NEWPORT, RI—A Newport resident received a $100 fine and a summons after his dogs went after a small dog being walked down the street with its owner. Francis Behrens, 34, was fined for allegedly failing to restrain his animals.

A witness told police an older man had a small dog on a leash when two dogs came out from Potter Street and attacked. Trying to save his pet, the man lay down on the sidewalk and called for help. Then Behrens, who owns the two big dogs, came and removed them. He offered the victim and his injured dog a ride to a veterinary hospital.

The incident happened on Sunday at 1:30 p.m.

A veterinarian said it appeared only the small dog had been bitten, not the man. The dog will recover, she said.

Police said Behrens will quarantine the dogs at home. The dogs are an American Staffordshire and a mastiff. The owner said the mastiff did not attack the other dog.